Research
Children's Hyperactivity and Autism Research Treatment Study (CHARTS)
A team of University of Rochester investigators is conducting the Children’s Hyperactivity and Autism Research Treatment Study (CHARTS) with a grant from the National Institute for Mental Health. This study focuses on the 1 in 4 children with Autism who also live with symptoms of ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of two treatments. One treatment is a medication called Atomoxetine (also called Strattera). This medication is intended to reduce symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The other treatment is called Parent Management Training (PMT). This training is intended to help parents learn how to manage their child’s challenging behaviors. The Rochester team is joined by counterparts at Ohio State University Medical Center and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Together, the three sites will split the $3 million dollar award over five years. Learn more about about CHARTS, visit ClinicalTrials.gov or CHARTS Autism Research web site.
Who is Eligible to Participate?
Children between 5-13 years old with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD.
How Does the Study Work?
The study involves 10 weekly clinic visits followed by an optional 24-week follow-up study (monthly visits). There are no costs to participate.
Participating families are randomly assigned (like flipping a coin) to one of four possible treatment groups:
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Medication alone
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Medication plus parent training sessions
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Parent training sessions plus placebo (a "sugar pill")
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Placebo (a "sugar pill") alone
Children who are placed on placebo for the initial 10 week study will be given the opportunity to try the actual medication during the 24-week follow up study.
Contact
Sarah Farash, LSW
Phone: (585)275-0953
Sarah_Farash@urmc.rochester.edu
Project Collaborators